Stepfamilies and blended families are very challenging. With a failure rate of over 70%, it's clear that blended families need help. Nacho Kids founders and ble...
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the NK Podcast, we're joined by stepmom Whitney, who revisits her story after first appearing on the podcast three and a half years ago. Whitney shares an incredible journey that showcases resilience, compassion, and the power of relationships in the midst of adversity. As a stepmom with no biological children and a 17-year-old stepdaughter, Whitney recounts her experience of supporting her stepdaughter's mother through a terminal cancer diagnosis. This candid conversation delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the emotional challenges of navigating a blended family, and the unexpected bond that formed between Whitney and her stepdaughter's mother. Join hosts Lori and David Sims as they explore Whitney's remarkable story of love, strength, and the unexpected paths life can take. Don't miss this episode, which is sure to resonate with anyone who has faced life's challenges with an open heart.
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298: Three Things Not To Say To A Stepparent
Welcome back to the Nacho Kids Podcast! In today's episode, Lori and David dive into a critical conversation about the challenges and misconceptions faced by stepparents. They explore three common phrases that should never be uttered to a stepparent. First, the hosts debunk the idea that stepparents knew what they were getting into when joining a blended family, emphasizing the unexpected trials involved. Next, they tackle the unrealistic expectation that stepparents should love their stepchildren like their own, highlighting the unique dynamics and relationships within a family. Finally, Lori and David clarify the misconception that stepparents are "parents too," discussing the complexity of roles within a blended family. Join us as we uncover some hard truths and foster understanding and empathy for stepparents navigating these complex relationships. So, stay tuned for an enlightening episode filled with candid discussions and relatable insights! In this episode, we discuss: General Discussion on Expectations in Life and Relationships Clarification and Healthy Expectations in Stepparent-Child Relationships Understanding Unrealistic Expectations The Complexity of Roles Guarding Against Harmful Assumptions: Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I thought since I had kids of my own and grew up in a stepfamily that I knew how to be a stepdad. Wrong. My wife and I fought constantly about discipline, boundaries, and how we should treat all the kids ‘equally.’ Nacho Kids Academy helped me realize that ‘equal’ isn’t always ‘fair’ and that my role in my stepkids’ lives wasn’t to be their dad. Once I stopped trying to force things, our home became so much calmer. The biggest surprise? My stepkids actually started coming to me on their own! We owe you so much, Lori & David!" - James T.
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297: Couples Communication ~ Raffi Bilek
In today's episode, host Lori welcomes Raffi Bilek, a marriage counselor based in Baltimore and the author of "The Couple's Communication Handbook: The Skills You Never Learned for the Marriage You Always Wanted." Raffi shares his experiences working with couples and emphasizes the importance of effective communication in relationships. He discusses cultural differences in communication, how childhood influences our communicative skills, and the challenges couples face when navigating conversations about money, expectations, and parenting in stepfamilies. Throughout the conversation, Raffi offers insights into improving dialogue and understanding within relationships, underlining the significance of empathy and active listening as keys to resolving conflicts and building stronger connections. Join us as we dive into these essential topics and learn how to enhance communication in our personal lives. In this episode, we discuss: Communication Skills Expectations and Conflict Empathy and Understanding Emotional Regulation Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: Stepmom and Bio Mom "Blending families is HARD. I didn’t understand why my husband treated my kids differently than his, and I was constantly frustrated that his kids got away with things mine never would. Nacho Kids Academy completely changed my perspective. Instead of comparing, I started focusing on what I could control—my own parenting and my relationship with my husband. The difference has been incredible. My stress level has dropped, and I don’t feel like I’m constantly walking on eggshells anymore!" - Rachel M.
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296: 3 Things To NOT Do As A Stepparent
Join hosts Lori and David as they share three very important tips for the stepparent! Listen as they dive into essential strategies for creating a harmonious stepfamily environment. Lori and David discuss the common pitfalls stepparents might be falling into without even realizing it. They explore three crucial behaviors to avoid if you're looking to reduce stress and build stronger relationships within your blended family. From understanding the implications of negative comments about the stepkids to recognizing the importance of not taking things personally and knowing when to step back from disciplining your stepchildren, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of step-parenting and foster a peaceful, loving home. In this episode, we discuss: Tit-for-tat behavior Avoiding negative comments to family members Adulting versus parenting Expectations Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: Childless Stepdad "I thought stepping in as a father figure was what my stepkids needed. Instead, it caused tension between me and my wife, and the kids resented me. Nacho Kids Academy helped me see that I was overstepping. Once I let go of trying to parent, my relationship with my wife improved, and the kids actually warmed up to me over time. Now, we get along naturally without me feeling like an outsider or a disciplinarian. We enjoy being around each other now!" - Mark D. “Proud Nacho Stepdad”
Over The Nacho Kids Podcast: Blended Family Lifesaver
Stepfamilies and blended families are very challenging. With a failure rate of over 70%, it's clear that blended families need help. Nacho Kids founders and blended family coaches, Lori and David Sims, are here to help blended families save their sanity and relationships. You'll hear the hosts and guests discuss the struggles and successes of blended family life and learn how the Nacho Kids Method is changing lives and saving relationships around the world.
Netherlands